Webinar: State and Federal Opportunities to Support More Diverse and Inclusive School Systems

The nation’s work towards greater racial equity and a more just society in many ways begins with more diverse and inclusive learning environments. Yet public schools are increasingly segregated along both racial and socioeconomic lines. Many of the most extremely segregated schools are also the most under-resourced, disproportionately staffed by inexperienced educators, lack of access to quality curriculum, and lack of quality facilities or access to technology. Even where there is student diversity, access to a diverse and inclusive learning environment may still be out of reach. Research shows diverse learning environments and experiences can improve outcomes for all students and help prepare them for participating in a diverse, global economy. States and the federal government can play a critical role in creating more diverse and inclusive school systems and in supporting and accelerating state and local efforts.

During this briefing, speakers discussed:

• The benefits of diverse and inclusive schools and how they can be achieved.
• Instructional approaches that create inclusive classrooms that recognize the potential of each and every student and how school systems can be designed to support these approaches.
• The importance of culturally and linguistically responsive practices and how educators can be supported in the development of these practices.
• State and federal opportunities to support and accelerate more diverse and inclusive school systems.

Opening Remarks

• Linda Darling-Hammond, President, Learning Policy Institute

Featured Offices

• Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT)
• Member of the Office of Representative Marcia Fudge (D-OH)

Speakers

• Maria E. Hyler, Deputy Director Washington, DC Office and Senior Researcher, Learning Policy Institute (moderator)
• Carlos E. Cortés, Edward A. Dickson Emeritus Professor of History, University of California, Riverside
• Janel George, Senior Policy Advisor, Learning Policy Institute
• Eric Gordon, Chief Executive Officer, Cleveland Metropolitan School District
• Gloria Ladson-Billings, Professor Emerita, Department of Curriculum & Instruction, University of Wisconsin and President, National Academy of Education

Photo courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.